### What is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma? Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects special white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are part of your immune system. These cells help your body fight infections. NHL starts in your lymphatic system, which runs throughout your body, so the cancer can appear almost anywhere and spread to various organs like the liver, bones, brain, and abdomen. ### Who is at Risk? People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, are more likely to develop NHL. However, you can still get NHL even if you have a strong immune system. ### Diagnosis To diagnose NHL, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. Blood tests, biopsies, and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans are often used to confirm the diagnosis and determine how far the cancer has spread. ### Treatment Options Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, your immune system's strength, and whether you've had other infections. Here are some common treatments: - **Watchful Waiting:** If the lymphoma is slow-growing and your immune system is strong, your doctor may monitor you without immediate treatment. - **Radiation Therapy:** High-energy waves or particles are used to kill cancer cells. Side effects may include fatigue, skin problems, and stomach upset. - **Chemotherapy:** Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. Side effects can include hair loss, mouth sores, vomiting, and fatigue. - **Biologic or Targeted Therapy:** These treatments use medicines to boost your immune system and specifically target cancer cells. - **Stem Cell Transplant:** High doses of chemotherapy and sometimes radiation are used to kill cancer cells, followed by a transplant of stem cells to replace damaged bone marrow. ### Additional Precautions If you have NHL, you may be at higher risk for other infections like Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Your doctor may recommend medications to prevent these infections. ### Conclusion Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing NHL effectively. Always consult your healthcare provider for the best treatment plan tailored to your condition.